Dave’s Maine Cafe — Restaurant in Kittery

Meant to write this after our first visit last week, but after going back again today, I knew I had to share just how special Dave’s Maine Café is. As a local, I can't believe it took me this long to discover this absolute gem right here in Kittery.

This is a true family-run spot — mom and dad, their daughter behind the bar, and their son in the kitchen — all smiling and working together seamlessly during a busy Sunday afternoon. It’s the kind of warm, genuine service you rarely see these days, and it makes all the difference.

The food? Absolutely exceptional. We had the lobster roll both times — fresh, generous, and served just the way we like it: warm with melted butter. Easily one of the best lobster rolls we’ve ever had. The whole menu looked great, and everything is clearly made with care and pride.

And let’s talk about the drinks — they offer a fun shot-and-a-beer combo for just $8! We went with a Modelo and a shot of tequila, which hit the spot and paired perfectly with our meal.

My only regret is that I didn’t know about Dave’s Maine Café nine years ago. It’s now one of our favorite spots, and we can’t wait to keep coming back. If you haven’t been — GO. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning...

Before heading home, we stopped by The Maine Beer Cafe after our weekend adventures with the family. We would not typically pick a bar atmosphere for our family but the food posted online looked really good and we just had to try it. There were not many people working so even though the service wasn't super fast, we knew the bartender was going as fast as she could. We were in no rush so we were just enjoying relaxing after such a long day. We ordered a variety of food and I have to say it was absolutely amazing and incredible in every way possible. The buffalo chicken wrap was fresh and absolutely hot hot hot. The classic burger was really juicy topped with cheese and tomatoes. Everything was super fresh. We enjoyed chips and cucumbers as sides, which is a nice change-up from the typical eatery. Their main side choice is potato salad. Great selections of sides. As for the atmosphere, the inside is small. Mostly bar patrons filled the bar area. The crowd appeared to be very local and close knit with the staff. It was nice and clean. The bathroom also has a very interesting appeal with many decals that decorate the walls from different beverage companies. I would love to visit again should I find myself...

Unfortunately, I can't rate anything within the establishment because I was told at 6:37 on Friday Jan 3rd 2025 that they were closed even though the hours on the door state 8pm. We drove 30 minutes for the bourbon night heavily advertised on Facebook. There were 3 patrons at the bar who were apparently "finishing their drinks" as I was told by the extremely unfriendly bartender. I clearly interrupted an evening with people he seemed to be friendly with as they all looked at me and laughed when I asked from the door if they were closed. Stools were on tables and the bartender was sweeping. I noticed as I got back in my vehicle that one gentleman was being served a drink as we were leaving. As a business owner myself, I am shocked to see a restaurant turning away paying customers. The hours online and posted on the door state that closing time is 8pm. I hope the owner is not the bartender I encountered. I feel the owner needs to be aware that people are being turned away during business hours. This should be handled according. If in fact that man was the owner, I wish you luck keeping your doors open. That's not the Maine business ethic I'm used to and would never treat my...